keeping collection organized?????


i was wondering if any of you uses some kind of computer program where you can have complete access to all the information of your collection.
thanks
opp

Showing 1 response by jwc37

I know I am showing my age, or perhaps the age of my collection, when I say how I organize my collection: 4000+ LPs and 1500+ CDs. I started in the 60s using 3x5 plain library cards. Each work is on a separate card and filed by composer. On the left side of the card at the top is RECORD, CD, CASSETTE or DVD. Next, at the top, is the composer and his/her "dates".
Under the composer is the complete info on the recorded work. Next down is the manufacturers name and the number of the album given by the manufacturer. (I file all of my recordings alphabetically by manufacturer and numerically by the manufacturer's number.) Next down is the timing, format, and date of recording. Under that is the orchestra or performers who are performing and the conductor. Followed by the person's name who wrote the program notes. Under this I list all of the other works by the same composer found on the recording and/or the name of other composers whose works are on the same recording. One recording can have as many as 12 cards generated as I have one card for each work by each composer. This way I do not "Lose" a recorded work.
Needless to say there has been a great deal of work done in cataloging my collection over the years but I can find any work I have within a minute or less once I have looked it up in my card file. It is rather easy to keep the catalogue current by typing a card or cards for each new purchase. I've gone through 3 or 4 typewriters over the years and have thousands of cards.
I also have all of my musical scores and books catalogued as well within the same card system. I have a few genres located in the system, the largest two being Band music and Jazz. Listings in these catagories are also listed alphabetically in the files.
Works for me!